Nov. 20--By defeating Ohio 21-14 Tuesday night, the Huskies (9-2, 6-1 MAC) did their part to set up a high-stakes regular-season finale Nov. 28 against Western Michigan in Kalamazoo, Mich. In the meantime, the Broncos (7-3, 5-1) will try to get past Central Michigan (7-4, 5-2) on Saturday. NIU has won five in a row and appears to be putting it all together at the right time.
Offense: B
Quarterback Drew Hare continues to do an excellent job of protecting the ball (one interception this season) while making plays with his arm and his legs. Hare's 18-yard touchdown pass to Chad Beebe in the fourth quarter against the Bobcats was the game-winner.
Defense: A
Turnovers were key for the Huskies. Cornerback Anthony Brooks had an interception and Marlon Moore recovered a fumble -- forced by linebacker Boomer Mays -- to preserve the victory in the final minutes. Perez Ford had a sack. The defense registered a key fourth-down stop to stymie an Ohio drive.
Special teams: A
Punter Tyler Wedel averaged 42.8 yards on six boots. He landed three of his kicks inside the 20, including one on the 1-yard-line. His ability to flip field position was critical in such a close game.
Coaching: A-
Rod Carey makes sure his team does not look past any opponent en route to the marquee matchups. However, continuing to insert backup quarterback Anthony Maddie for occasional series seems to disrupt the offensive rhythm.
